Sr Manager, Test Software

We are CARIAD, an automotive software development team with the Volkswagen Group. Our mission is to make the automotive experience safer, more sustainable, more comfortable, more digital, and more fun. To achieve that we are building the leading tech stack for the automotive industry and creating a unified software platform for over 10 million new vehicles per year. We’re looking for talented, digital minds like you to help us create code that moves the world. Together with you, we’ll build outstanding digital experiences and products for all Volkswagen Group brands that will transform mobility. Join us as we shape the future of the car and everyone around it.

Role Summary

The Sr. Manager, Test Software has the overall responsibility to lead a team that manages software testing within the hardware platform development department. This individual will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of software testing, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products. This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and technical expertise in software testing methodologies and tools.

Role Responsibilities 

 Leadership and Management (60%)

• Lead the test software engineering team for CARIAD.   Ensure a high-performance culture within the team by fostering collaboration, integrity, inclusion, transparency, accountability & compassion.
• Manage and align budgets & staffing demand with CARIAD stakeholders. 
• Establish measurable individual and team objectives that are aligned with business goals
• Provide advice, guidance, encouragement, and constructive feedback to test software team members
• Implement organizational practices for staffing, EEO, diversity, performance management, development, reward and recognition, and retention
• Develop partnerships and strengthens the ties between CARIAD and North American regulators, partners, research institutions, and other stakeholders

 Software Testing (20%)

• Establish best practices and processes for software testing within the team and with global CARIAD stakeholders to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality products & results.
• Develop and implement comprehensive test strategies, plans, and processes, considering factors like cost-effectiveness, scalability, and compatibility with existing system
• Lead initiatives to improve testing methodologies, tools, and techniques to enhance overall productivity and quality
• Drive the adoption and implementation of test automation frameworks and tools to streamline the testing process and improve efficiency

 Budgeting, Finance and Administration (20%)

• Assist VP, Engineering HW Platform Development and lead forecast budgetary requirements for annual planning rounds
• Manage and allocate budget for staffing needs within the software development team. Collaborate with the VP of Engineering HW Platform Development to forecast and plan for staffing requirements and to optimize staffing costs while ensuring a high-performance team structure.
• Collaborate with technical project managers to allocate resources effectively across different test software development initiatives. Ensure alignment with budget constraints and project priorities.

Years of Experience

• 12+ years of relevant experience of software testing and software development

• 4+ years of leadership experience in the automotive industry, technology industry, or related industries

Required Education

•  Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field

Desired Education

•  Master’s Degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field

Skills:

• Technical Leadership skills
• Analytical and conceptual thinking
• Supervisory and management skills
• Experience in developing strategies for R&D
• Communication skills - interpersonal, presentation and written
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment
• Excellent organization and delegation skills
• Strategic/visionary minded

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in managing teams, including staffing, performance management, skill development, and fostering a positive work environment
• Deep understanding of software testing principles, methodologies, and best practices
• Proven experience in developing and implementing test strategies, plans, and processes for co